Media Technology & Innovation

Loudness

Loudness

In August 2010, the EBU published the first version of its Loudness Recommendation EBU R128(now in version 3.0). It tells how broadcasters can measure and normalise audio using Loudness meters instead of Peak Meters (PPMs) only, as has been common practice.

-23 LUFS

Basically EBU R 128 recommends to normalize audio at -23 LUFS ±0.5 LU (±1 LU for live programmes), measured with a relative gate at -10 LU. The metering approach can be used with virtually all material. To make sure meters from different manufacturers provide the same reading, EBU Tech 3341 specifies the 'EBU Mode', which includes a Momentary (400 ms), Short term (3s) and Integrated (from start to stop) meter. Many vendors support 'EBU Mode' in their products.

Questions

If you have any further questions on EBU R 128 or related topics, which are not listed in our FAQ section, or if you intend to implement EBU R 128 Loudness normalisation in your distribution chain, then please send us an e-mail via: tech@ebu.ch.

EBU Tech 3344 v2.0

The new EBU Tech 3344 v2.0 explains how to achieve consistent loudness levels from broadcaster to consumer and now includes AC-4 and MPEG-H.

Russian translations

With special thanks to our Member RTR we offer the following Russian translations: